Former D-backs starting catcher to sign 2-year deal with Cubs

Carson Kelly, who was the Diamondbacks starting catcher for 2019-2022, has agreed to a two-year deal with the Chicago Cubs

Former Diamondbacks catcher Carson Kelly has found a new home in 2025. ESPN MLB Insider Jeff Passan reports that Kelly and the Chicago Cubs have agreed to a 2-year, $11.5 million deal.

Kelly, 30, was originally acquired as the key piece in the deal that sent former franchise icon Paul Goldschmidt to the St. Louis Cardinals. He had a promising first year, in which he hit .245 with 18 home runs, but never seemed to be able to get into a rhythm following that season. Injuries took their toll over the years, leading to his release during the 2023 season once Gabriel Moreno emerged as the team’s starting catcher.

Kelly was then picked up by the Detroit Tigers and finally was able to put together a solid season in 2024. Following a strong first half with the Tigers, he was traded to the Texas Rangers. Between the two clubs, he slashed .238/.313/.374, good for a 96 OPS+. With the solid season, he was going to get a solid free agent deal.

For $5.5 million per season, Kelly will likely see a split situation behind the plate with youngster Miguel Amaya. Chicago had run Yan Gomes out there, but as the veteran struggled he was replaced by the light-hitting Tomas Nido to close out 2024. The Cubs will hope to get more production at the plate from Kelly.

Michael McDermott is a Contributor to FanSided’s MLB coverage on Call to the Pen, Venom Strikes, Dodgers Way, and Friars on Base. He has been writing about the Arizona Diamondbacks, and their minor league system, for 9 seasons for AZ Snake Pit, Diamondbacks on SI, and Burn City Sports.